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Ultralight approach shoe: replacement for Evolv Cruiser?

Original Post
MattH · · CO mostly · Joined Sep 2011 · Points: 1,401

I love my Tx2s as a 'throw in the follower's pack' approach shoe but don't like climbing with them clipped to my harness - they're about 50% heavier and 2x as bulky as the evolv cruisers. However, every lighter option seems terrible as an approach shoe. Is there anything akin to an updated version of the cruiser (which was perfect to clip to the harness but too narrow and floppy to be a decent approach shoe)? Anyone have an alternative suggestion that can stand up to light scrambling and a few miles of hiking? I'm sure the barefoot trail runners out there have come up with something...

Calum TM · · Squamish · Joined Dec 2018 · Points: 92

Bedrock sandals! Done north dome gully and other shitty decents in them. Not great for snow though :)

giraud b · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Nov 2022 · Points: 0

Maybe the Bedrock brand:


https://gearjunkie.com/footwear/bedrock-cairn-evo-c-sandals-review

Tim FromMaine · · Maine->Colorado · Joined Jul 2009 · Points: 33

I like the Astral Loyak san foot bed as very minimal option, Arc'teryx Norval SL (discontinued?) as a more legit scramble/hike option. 

Matt N · · CA · Joined Oct 2010 · Points: 476

If you love the Cruisers (Cruzers sp?), search eBay, Mercari and Poshmark for a pair in your size. You'd be surprised that you can still find like new, old ones if you're patient.

There's also BD Tag LT (def. lightweight), but for my fit and preference, I like the Five Ten Urban Approach. Discontinued, but cheap on eBay in limited sizes (size like guide tennies). Fold down heel. Dot C4 rubber.
The Urban Approach are slightly lighter than TX2s, and the BD Tag LT is slightly lighter than the UAs.

Urban Approach look like this:


The BDs can be (designed to be) worn without socks also = even lighter! Felt too synthetic and swampy to me, though. The Urban Approach are more of a standard canvas feel and not sweaty (with socks). 
Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

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